The Art of the Re-Gift

It's one of those things that everybody does, but nobody talks about!  Holidays, birthdays and special occasions usually involve gift-giving of some sort.  Most times re-gifting is planned...other times...not so much.  It begins with a gift.  One person receives a gift, has a gift, or has something in their possession that they can't or won't use and so... would serve as a greater gift to someone ELSE (at least one can only hope)!  It doesn't necessarily mean the original recipient thought the gift sucked...it just means it doesn't work for them or they can't use it.  It also doesn't mean the person receiving the gift sucks...it just means they are more suited for the unknown gift.  Heck, and to keep it really real, as I do; you may just not have it to do at  the time and the best solution for you will be to re-gift.  Whatever you're initial reasoning it's all about the effort you place into re-gifting.  Practicing the art of re-gifting...because it is a special craft!
There are specific cases when re-gifting absolutely WORKS:
1. The person you're re-gifting does not know it was a previous gift, otherwise known as hand-me-down.
2. The gift is perfect for them.  (their personality, size, or it's just plain ole' something they wanted)
3. The gift is in perfect condition! (original tags attached, fresh, preferably perfectly packaged)
4. It's useful! (it may not have worked for you...but it's PERFECT for them)
5. Accompany the gift with a thoughtful, NEW card.  (it ties it all together)
Here's when re-gifting goes WRONG!  ABORT MISSION!
1. The person receiving the gift knows it's a re-gift and they were presumed to believe it was original.
2. It was something you didn't want, and now...they don't want it! (because it's out of date or season, not their personality, size or style)
3. It's been used! (missing pieces, fragrance low, tags are worn so bad they are soft or there's stains)
4.Original names are still on the gift. (please double check the gift...common courtesy!)

All in all, there's nothing blatantly wrong with re-gifting (my opinion) however, there's a certain decorum you MUST practice when doing so:
Awareness is key-Make sure the gift will suit your receiver and you understand the gift must be in great condition, examine it, and then bag it!  Place yourself in the receivers shoes!
Now to be clear:
It's a total other story if you're giving away something...that's NOT a gift.  When you give away something; you don't have to wrap it, it's not a surprise, and the person receiving it more than likely is clearly aware that it may or may not have been used. 
Here are some lovely ideas for re-gifting:
*Electronics
*Fragrance
*Houseware
*Equipment
*Travel vouchers
*Movie Passes
*Gift cards

It may never happen, especially if you follow the art of the re-gift however, just as insurance...here's-
What to do when you've been caught re-gifting:
1. Acknowledgement-  Do not insult the person's intelligence or pretend like it never happened.  Express to them exactly why you would give them the re-gift:
2. Profess- "It's perfect for you." "When first I got this, I knew you had to have it."  Any variation to the above will do.  As long as you're honest and sincere, they should understand.  If you're gifting them...you'd think they know you. LOL!
3. Embrace-Throw a hug in for good measure, and for goodness sake make sure the card is thoughtful and the bagging or wrapping is impeccable!

XOXO